Chicago's Airports Welcome Over 2 Million Passengers For End of the Year Holiday Travel Period
Excitement, Entertainment and Family Fun Fill Airport Terminals at Midway and O'Hare
(CHICAGO) -- December 20, 2000 -- More than 2 million passengers are expected to pass through Chicago's airports for the remainder of the holiday season. Beginning today, and continuing through next Wednesday, December 27, a daily average of over 220,000 will pass through O'Hare and another 40,000 will pass through Midway.
"We will continue to provide a friendly environment and updated information on airport and airline conditions to minimize any inconveniences travelers may experience during this busy holiday period," said Aviation Commissioner Thomas R. Walker.
Beginning December 20 - 22, the Holiday Delights Live Entertainment Program will feature some of Chicago's outstanding musicians. Music will fill airport terminals from 3:00 - 7:00 P.M., featuring blues, pop, classical, reggae, jazz and international selections. Pictures with Santa Clause and candy for the children will be available at the Children's Museum in Terminal 2 from 4:00 - 6:00 P.M.
Travelers will have a wide variety of food, beverage and retail offerings to select from. Most recently, O'Hare International Airport was voted Best Airport in North America by the Business Traveler. Travelers can also take advantage of last minute shopping opportunities at retail outlets conveniently located throughout the airport terminals.
Travelers should allow ample time for traveling to the airports, ticketing and checking baggage. The Department of Aviation is recommending an additional thirty minutes to the recommended arrival times for departing international and domestic flights. Two hours prior to a domestic departure and two and a half hours for an international departure. It is also recommended that travelers call their airline before going to the airports for updated flight information.
Travelers are encouraged to take advantage of public transportation options available at both Midway and O'Hare airports to avoid roadway congestion. The CTA's Blue Line to O'Hare and the Orange Line to Midway are convenient ways to get to the airports.
Wednesday, December 20 through January 2, 2001, a special holiday parking rate of $3.00 for the first three hours will be available for motorists using O'Hare's main garage. Midway motorists can take advantage of holiday rates, $2.00 for two hours. For further parking information at O'Hare, travelers may call (773) 686-7530. At Midway, travelers may call (773) 838-0756.
The Chicago Airport System's web site, www.chicagoairports.com will also be providing information updates during this busy holiday period.
